Utah Code § 17-76-214: Leave of absence -- Sick leaves and vacations.

(1) The appointing authority, with the commission's approval, may grant a peace officer a leave of absence without pay for a period not to exceed one year.

(2) If a peace officer on leave takes a higher position in police work that does not come under the merit system provisions of this part, the appointing authority may, with the commission's consent, renew the leave of absence.

(3) If a peace officer is elected sheriff, or is appointed chief deputy, the peace officer shall automatically be placed on a leave of absence for the period of time the peace officer remains sheriff or chief deputy.

(4) Upon the termination of a leave of absence, the peace officer shall be returned to the peace officer's former position.

(5) Sick leaves and vacations with pay shall be as provided by law or ordinance.